A Voyage round the World: A book for boysKingston, William Henry Giles
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A Voyage round the World: A book for boys
Kingston, William Henry Giles
Voyages around the world -- Juvenile fiction
garments probably having passed a probation in pawnbrokers' shops, or in
those of old clothes-men in London or Liverpool. I was particularly
struck by the total want of perception of congruity as to dress
exhibited both by men and women after they had abandoned their native
costume, which, if somewhat scanty, was graceful and adapted to the
climate. The women we saw were dressed in straw bonnets of huge
proportions and ugly shape, and loose gowns of gay colours reaching from
the throat to the ankles, with silk handkerchiefs tied round their
necks. A few wore wreaths of flowers round their heads, which formed a
picturesque part of their ancient costume. The people are said to be
very honest, and always seemed in good-humour, happy and cheerful, while
we never saw them quarrelling or disputing with each other, far less
coming to blows. Many of them are scrupulous in their attendance on
religious worship; the Sabbath is strictly kept by all, not even a boat
being launched, while those who are seen abroad are decently clothed,
going to or coming from church. What change French civilisation may
have worked in this state of things it is painful to reflect. We
visited several schools, and except that their skins were darker, the
appearance of the children differed little from that of the same class
in any part of Europe, while they appeared in no way wanting in
intelligence. In fact, from all we saw and heard, we came to the
conclusion that the inhabitants of the islands of Polynesia are
generally as capable of a high state of education and civilisation as
the people of any other race, while their minds are peculiarly
susceptible of religious instruction. Our fellow-voyagers afforded us a
good example of this. We much regretted that we could not converse
familiarly with them. Our missionary friend had especially won our
regard and esteem.
They were now anxious to return to their own island, the season of the
year being favourable for the voyage. It was with much regret that we
heard of their intended departure. With a large concourse of natives
and several English missionaries, we accompanied them down to the beach
to see them off. Prayers were offered up by all present for their
safety during their voyage. It was an impressive and affecting scene.
Many wept as the fine old chief and his friends stepped on board. He
could scarcely refrain from tears, nor could we. The frail canoe was
launched forth into the deep, the sail was hoisted, and away they went
on a voyage of three hundred miles, with full faith that the God who had
hitherto preserved them would watch over them still.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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